Price Guide for 1842 Half Dime Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $1.00 – $646.25Uncirculated: $1.20 – $4,935.00
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eBayCirculated: $20.70 – $275.00Uncirculated: $230.00 – $556.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $25.00 – $325.00Uncirculated: $350.00 – $6,500.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $2.10 – $1,840.00Uncirculated: $750.00 – $25,300.00
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eBayCirculated: $15.50 – $555.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $75.00 – $1,800.00Uncirculated: $1,900.00 – $25,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $7,040.00 – $28,200.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $40,000.00 – $55,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $82,250.00 – $92,000.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $100,000.00
Design and Specifications of the 1842 Half Dime
The 1842 Half Dime is part of the Seated Liberty series, which began in 1837 and continued until 1873. This coin represents a significant period in American numismatic history, as it was minted during the expansion of the United States and the growing need for smaller denominations in commerce.
The Seated Liberty design, featuring Lady Liberty seated on a rock, symbolized the nation’s stability and strength during a time of territorial growth and economic development.
| Weight | 1.34 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 15.5 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), New Orleans (O) |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Obverse Design | Seated Liberty, designed by Christian Gobrecht |
| Reverse Design | Wreath surrounding the words 'HALF DIME', designed by Christian Gobrecht |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1842 Half Dimes significantly impacts their value and desirability among collectors. Coins in higher grades (MS63 and above) are particularly sought after due to their scarcity.
Strike quality is an important factor, as many coins from this era suffer from weak strikes. Well-struck examples with full details command a premium. Original luster is highly prized, and coins with attractive, natural toning can see increased demand and value.
Mintage: 815,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, with higher demand for well-preserved specimens
Mintage: 350,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Limited Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Very rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved examples
Mint marks play a crucial role in the value of 1842 Half Dimes. The New Orleans (O) mint examples are generally more valuable due to their lower mintage and survival rate.
The preservation of design details, particularly on Liberty’s head and the wreath on the reverse, is important. Coins with sharp, well-defined features are more desirable.
As with many coins of this era, die varieties exist, though they are not as significant for this date. However, collectors specializing in the Seated Liberty series may pay a premium for certain die pairings or states.
